A weekend that felt like a new beginning for Belgian judo in Kortrijk

When the Triglav Insurance Get Together Tournament in Kortrijk wrapped up, it didn’t land like an ending. The atmosphere pointed the other way: toward a fresh start built on emotion, unity, and a sense that Belgian judo can move forward together.

At the center of it all was Belgian Judo Federation president Peter Vermeir. He wasn’t a distant figure watching from a VIP seat. People saw him everywhere, from the stands to the tatami, switching between a suit and a judogi, fully present in the rhythm of the event.

In Kortrijk, leadership looked like showing up, not stepping back.

Vermeir admitted how emotional the day had been for him and for the federation. He recalled a moment from earlier in his journey: EJU president László Tóth once told him that if you organise something for adapted judo, you will cry. After the final medal ceremony, that message felt very real.

One of the biggest wins for Belgium wasn’t a result on the scoreboard, but cooperation. Vermeir underlined that the Flemish and French parts of Belgian judo worked well together—something he said hadn’t happened like this for years. He also highlighted the Kortrijk organising team and the 60 volunteers who helped deliver the tournament.

Vermeir’s connection to adapted judo isn’t just administrative. He said he sometimes coaches on Saturdays, works from a club in Ghent, and teaches both adapted judo participants and high-level judoka. For him, adapted judo demands a different mindset, and creativity—trying ideas, learning, and improving.

The day also hit home: one of his sons competed (level 5). Vermeir explained that as an official you can’t truly support from the side, but seeing the happiness in a child’s eyes is what makes the work meaningful.

Looking ahead, he wants Belgian judo to take a step up internationally after years without participation in the EJU or the IJF. He pointed to the Medical Congress in Belgium in October and said progress will come step by step, while already looking forward to the European Championships in Georgia.

The message from Kortrijk was simple: teamwork can change the direction of a sport.

Source: EJU_News